Five epic road trips to keep you dreaming of the open road

Original full article published on Tourism Australia's website, Australia.com.

Keep your wanderlust alive with these five epic Australian road trips. From cascading waterfalls, lush national parks and the striking red earth of the outback, to sapphire blue bays, white sands and unspoiled tropical beaches there’s no better way to discover Australia than on the open road.

1) The Great Barrier Reef Drive

Located between the world’s largest reef system and the Daintree Rainforest, the picturesque Great Barrier Reef drive will take you on a tropical adventure from Cairns along 300-kilometres (186-miles) of Queensland’s spectacular coast. Snorkel around the enchanting coral reef, feel the squeaky white sand beneath your toes in Port Douglas, enrich your knowledge of Aboriginal culture in the ancient Daintree Rainforest, and spot saltwater crocodiles in Cape Tribulation.

2) The Great Eastern Drive

Wind along the breathtaking coast of Australia’s island state of Tasmania on the 176-kilometre (109-mile) Great Eastern Drive. Stop along the way to sample the region’s world-class wine and mouth-watering fresh seafood, before coming face-to-face with some of the island’s cutest native residents. 

3) The Great Ocean Road

This is undoubtedly one of the most scenic road trips in Australia. Pack the car and set off on the Great Ocean Road to discover sweeping coastal views, ancient rock formations, and between May and November, majestic whales breaching over the horizon. Spend three (or more) days winding your way from Melbourne to Adelaide, or Adelaide to Melbourne. 

4) Adelaide to Perth road trip

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, set off from Adelaide towards South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, where you’ll uncover the magnificent and Instagram-famous Watermelon Avenue; the narrow track dividing the bubble-gum pink waters of Lake MacDonnell and the blue-green waterscape.

5) The Stuart Highway road trip

Breathe in the fresh open air of the Northern Territory’s Stuart Highway. This epic journey will open your eyes to the vast plains, red earth, and wild beauty of the Australian outback. Begin your journey in Adelaide, stopping at bucket list-worthy destinations along the road to Darwin, including Alice Springs, Uluru and Kakadu.

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